Djingov, Gouginski, Kyutchukov & Velichkov > Sofia, Bulgaria > Firm Profile
Djingov, Gouginski, Kyutchukov & Velichkov Offices
10 TSAR OSVOBODITEL BLVD.
1000 SOFIA
Bulgaria
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Djingov, Gouginski, Kyutchukov & Velichkov > The Legal 500 Rankings
Bulgaria > Banking, finance and capital markets Tier 1
With one of the largest banking and finance teams in the market, Djingov, Gouginski, Kyutchukov & Velichkov advises its roster of both domestic and international clients on the full spectrum of matters in the finance sector, including debt capital markets transactions. Nikolai Gouginski, who heads the project finance and international lending practice groups, jointly leads the team alongside ‘exceptional’ Georgi Tzvetkov, who is noted for his expertise in regulatory mandates and transactional work, and Vessela Stancheva-Mincheva, who also oversees the capital markets and insurance group.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Stephan Kyutchukov
Testimonials
‘DGKV is responsive and provides real-time, practical and commercial solutions rather than simply being “local counsel”. They go above and beyond.’
‘Georgi Tzvetkov is exceptional – he has a strong client focus with a can-do attitude.’
Key clients
Acibadem City Clinic
Alpha Bank A.E.
Alvogen Emerging Markets Holdings Limited
Amylum Bulgaria
AP Investments
Arab Bank (Switzerland) Ltd.
Barclays Capital
Blantyre Capital Limited
Blocks Group
BNP Paribas Factor
Bohemian Financing Zrt (BoFi)
British Arab Commercial Bank
BTC (Black Toro Capital Group)
Bulgarian Development Bank
Bulgarian Real Estate Fund Inc.
Bulsatcom
Burgan Bank A.Ş.
Caterpillar Financial Services
China Eximbank
The Export Import Bank of China (CEXIM)
Citadel Securities Europe Limited (CSEL)
Citibank
Citigroup Global Markets Limited
DEG Invest
Deutsche Bank
DSK Bank
DVB Bank SE
Eleven Fund Cooperatief
EMP Invest Bulgaria
Equinix
Etem Bulgaria
Euroclear SA/NV Brussels
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)
Forex Capital Markets Limited
GetBack Recovery
Goldman Sachs
Gradus – 1
GTC
International Finance Corporation
Intersel Bulgaria
InvestForce
JP Morgan Europe Limited
Karsch Venture Capital
Landmark Holding
LAUNCHub Fund Coöperatief U.A.
MasterCard Europe
Mechel Carbon
Mechel International Holdings
Nuntius Brokerage and Investment Services S.A. – Bulgaria Branch
Niton Group
Portigon and Erste Abwicklungsanstalt
P&S Group
PPF a.s.
Raiffeisenbank Bulgaria
Raiffeisen Bank International
Regional Urban Development Fund
The Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB)
The World Bank
TRG Management
UniCredit Bank Austria
Unicredit Bulbank
United Bulgarian Bank
V2 Investment S.à r.l.
Visa Europe Limited
Western Union Financial Services International
Work highlights
- Advised and assisted the joint lead managers in a €2.5bn sovereign bond issuance by the Republic of Bulgaria.
- Advised Blocks Group in respect of raising multilayer financing including project finance, corporate bonds and mezzanine finance, with a deal value of €65m.
- Advised OTP Bank and DSK Bank on financing provided to Ministry Properties for the development of NV Tower, with a deal value of €26m.
Bulgaria > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 1
Praised as one of ‘the best teams in the market’, Djingov, Gouginski, Kyutchukov & Velichkov has practice group with ‘partner depth’ and is well-placed to handle the full spectrum of local and cross-border transactions in Bulgaria. The team, which is noted for its expertise in the IT, banking, energy, pharma and real estate sectors, boasts an impressive roster of clients, such as PPF and JP Morgan. Zdravka Ugrinova, who is noted for her expertise in acquisitions, reorganisations and complex corporate mandates, jointly leads the practice alongside Violetta Kunze, who acts for clients in the TMT sector on cross-border transactions.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘They have a large team and partner depth, possibly the best in the market. They are technically very good, commercial and smart. I found them quite inspiring to work with. They took care of everything and were very detail oriented and persistent.’
Key clients
PPF
JP Morgan
Citigroup Global Markets Europe
CVC Capital Partners Advisory Company
Walt Disney Co.
Sanmina Corporation
Integral Venture Partners
Metric Capital Partners LLP
Magnetic Head Technologies
Internet Corporated Networks
Neveq New Vision 3 Fund KD
Darzalas Capital
Work highlights
- Advising the joint bookrunners Citigroup Global Markets Europe and JP Morgan on the Bulgarian law aspects of the bond issuance by Bulgarian Energy Holding of €600m 2.45% bonds due 2028.
- Advised Sanmina Corporation in relation to the acquisition of Osram, a Bulgarian lights and lighting devices manufacturer.
- Advised PPF on the Bulgarian law aspects of the acquisition of the media and entertainment group Central European Media Enterprises, including BTV media group.
Bulgaria > Dispute resolution Tier 1
Djingov, Gouginski, Kyutchukov & Velichkov ‘has a long-established practice’ and fields one of the largest teams in the market, which leverages its interdisciplinary expertise to handle high-value commercial and administrative disputes, in addition to international arbitration cases. ‘Brilliant litigator’ Angel Ganev leads the practice, as well as the firm’s anti-fraud sub-group, and is noted for his experience in bankruptcy and insolvency matters. The practice counts BMW, Facebook and Gazprom among its impressive roster of clients. Counsel Anton Krustev represents energy-sector clients, while counsel Valentin Bojilov focuses on banking and financial disputes.Practice head(s):
Angel Ganev
Other key lawyers:
Anton Krustev; Valentin Bojilov; Gergana Monovska
Testimonials
‘Djingov, Gouginski, Kyutchukov & Velichkov’s dispute resolution team has a long-established practice. Members of the team are very efficient, knowledgeable and capable. They give all the time and attention needed for each particular case. I would highly recommend the team for complex litigation matters.’
‘We worked mainly with the partner Angel Ganev who is outstanding lawyer and professional. He was always there when we needed his support and advice. What we like was that the partner was directly involved with our case. Mr. Ganev is a brilliant litigator, very experienced and powerful in the court room. He is a good strategist and is able to predict how the case may develop depending on the moves of the opponent.’
‘In particular, I have worked with Gergana Monovska on several litigation cases both in general courts and commercial arbitration. Gergana is an experienced litigation lawyer who handles thoroughly complex legal matters in court. She takes over all aspects of a case. I appreciated her attention to detail in preparing the cases and supporting materials.’
‘The team is led by partner Angel Ganev. What the team is known for market-leading practice with a track record in disputes involving prominent domestic and international clients, often on cross-border cases. Highly experienced in commercial litigation and international arbitration matters, with further expertise in insolvency and debt collection issues. Particularly active in disputes emanating from the energy and financial services sectors. Also offers expertise in public procurement matters. Increasingly active in advising on white-collar crime cases.’
Key clients
ABB Bulgaria
Acibadem City Clinic EAD
AES-3C Maritza East 1
American University in Bulgaria
Andres Schneider Rechtsanwaelte
Aresgas
ARGE CDM/Fichtner/C&E
Asia Steel & Metal Ltd
A.T. Kearney
Audatex-Magyarorszag
Avia International
Bawag Bank
BCUBE
BMW
Brееze Properties
Bulgarian Mezzanine Partners
Bulsatcom
C3/CustomerContactChannels
Cargill Bulgaria
CarVal Investors
CEZ Elektro Bulgaria
CEZ Razpredelenie Bulgaria
Claes-goran Fridh
ContourGlobal Maritsa East 3
Coutot Roehrig
Deca Trade
Deroni
Dhollandia Bulgaria Ltd
Domain Menada Distribution
ECCIP Holding B.V.
Eurobank Cyprus
Eurotronics
Fabrika za mlechni produkti
Family Home Concept SRL
Financial Supervision Commission
Flying Carpet Ltd
Froneri Bulgaria
Galeya
Gazprom Export
Ghelardi E Associati Studio Legale
Global Resource
Glorient Investment Bulgaria
Golden Leaf Tobacco Company Inc.
Haos Invest
HETA Luftfahrzeuge Leasing
Honeywell
Huawei Technologies Bulgaria
Intelpack
Investint SA
Ital Food Industry
ITS
Karanovic & Nikolic
Kenneth Dante Murena
MAN Diesel & Turbo
Marie Brizard Wine & Spirits Distribution Bulgaria
Mechel Carbon
Mechel International Holdings
Medilab
Menada Vineyards
Metro Cash and Carry Bulgaria
Mundipharma
Mundus Services
Nantong Yimian Textile Co.
NEPI Investment Management SRL
Oman Investment Fund
Philipex Trading
Punto Fa SL – Mango
Q Vent
Queensland Nickel Pty
Red Bull
Rheinland Elektro Maschinen Group Doo
Risoil B.V.
Saipem
Sakar Vineyards
Sandvik Mining and Construction Materials Handling GmbH & Co KG
SAP
SC DEUTEK SA
Seeds Oil Grain
Shanghai Chaori International Trading Co.
Sirio G & V
Solarpro
State General Reserve Fund of Oman
Sumitomo Electric Bordnetze
Swiss Latam
TD Bank Group
Telenor
TeleTech
Tengelmann Warenhandelsgesellschaft KG
Toto Costruzioni Generali
Trade Center Sliven
Trane ČR spol. S R.o.
Turkish Airlines
UniEco
V i K Steneto
V2 Investment S.à r.l.
VIP Security Solutions
Viridian Offices
Visteon Electronics Bulgaria
Vodosnabdyavane i kanalizatsiya Dobrich
Walltopia
Wilmington Trust
Work highlights
- Consulting and representing American University in Bulgaria in a series of complex court disputes valued at €10m.
- Provided advice through the public procurement process and negotiating the terms of the operational agreement to Bulgarian Mezzanine Partners, with matter value of €42.8m under management.
- Representing Trade Center Sliven in a $1.84m arbitration case under the auspices of the Federation of Oils, Seeds, and Fats Associations (FOSFA) against Brumau Comercio de Óleos Vegetals Ltd.
Bulgaria > Energy and natural resources Tier 1
Djingov, Gouginski, Kyutchukov & Velichkov’s energy and utilities practice counts ContourGlobal Maritsa East III, ČEZ and Axpo Trading, among its roster of notable clients, as well as several banks, financial institutions and funds investing in the energy sector. Full-time energy specialists Milan Pandev and Georgi Goudiniski lead a large team of practitioners. Recommended for pipeline development, power generation and distribution projects, Pandev has notable experience in the power and oil and gas sectors, while Goudiniski focuses on project financing, M&A, privatization and international commercial transactions in this space.Practice head(s):
Milan Pandev; Georgi Gouginski
Other key lawyers:
Anton Krustev; Yassen Spassov
Testimonials
‘Djingov, Gouginski, Kyutchukov & Velichkov provides highly professional services from experienced lawyers having the expertise and motivation to meet the best criteria for quality of the work. DGKV delivers timely, exhaustive and competent legal advice discussed from different perspectives and observing the highest standards in the area which makes this practice unique.’
‘Milan Pandev is extremely highly-qualified in the field of energy law and corporate law.’
‘Anton Krustev is a recognized expert in the field of energy law.’
Key clients
ContourGlobal Maritza East III
Vitol Gas & Power
CEZ Elektro
Axpo Trading
Shanghai Sensheng Assets Management Centre
Mechel International Holding
Patria Land Oy
Water & Sewerage Company Steneto
Work highlights
- Advised ContourGlobal Maritza East III as a principal legal counsel on all Bulgarian law matters.
- Advising Gazprombank in relation to the financing of the EPC contractor awarded the expansion of the gas transmission infrastructure of Bulgartransgaz, parallel to the north gas pipeline to the Bulgarian-Serbian border.
- Providing transaction structuring advice to Portigon and Erste Abwicklungsanstalt in respect of the Bulgarian law aspects of the transfer of loans secured by collateral in Bulgaria, drafting of transfer agreements for the restructuring of and partial exit from certain loans under four separate financing agreements and an inter-creditor agreement for the long term project financing of a large energy project in Bulgaria.
Bulgaria > EU and competition Tier 1
Djingov, Gouginski, Kyutchukov & Velichkov’s caseload includes the full spectrum of competition and antitrust mandates, including merger control, cartel investigations, and matters concerning restraint of trade and abuse of dominant position. The ‘top-notch’ team counts leading domestic and multinational companies, including TikTok, British American Tobacco and UEFA, among its roster of clients. Nikolai Gouginski, who has extensive experience in representing clients in investigations and proceedings before the Bulgarian Commission on Protection of Competition, jointly leads the practice alongside TMT and corporate partner Violetta Kunze.Practice head(s):
Nikolai Gouginski; Violetta Kunze
Other key lawyers:
Vladislav Antonov; Dessislava Iordanova
Testimonials
‘Profound knowledge of competition law, extensive experience and swift and high-quality legal advice.’
‘We are very happy with the legal services provided by Vladislav Antonov and Nikolay Gouginski. Nikolay and Vladislav are making a very strong and reliable duo with their extensive expertise in the field of competition law. The team is very responsive, with a strong understanding on the matter and provides quick, high-quality, and business orientated services.’
‘Very deep understanding on the matter with a business orientated approach toward each advice and with a prompt reaction in each and every case.’
‘Top notch legal service, extremely responsive and flexible.’
Key clients
OMV Bulgaria
Nikon Europe B.V.
Tik Tok
Novartis Group
Mayoral Moda Infantil and Mayoral Bulgaria
British American Tobacco Trading
Devnya Cement (Part of the Heidelberg Cement Group)
Blantyre Capital Limited
UEFA
Quadrant Beverages
Work highlights
- Advising and representing Nikon with respect to an investigation launched by the CPC in January 2018 into an alleged abuse of dominant position and prohibited practices.
- Advising and representing Mayoral Moda Infantil and its Bulgarian subsidiary in two sets of proceedings against both companies initiated on a complaint by a former commercial partner.
- Representing OMV Bulgaria in antitrust investigation launched by the CPC in April 2020 against eleven wholesalers and retailers in the fuel sector for alleged abuse of dominant position and coordination among the participants on the fuel markets.
Bulgaria > Healthcare and life sciences Tier 1
Praised as a ‘top-tier practice for healthcare and life sciences’, Djingov, Gouginski, Kyutchukov & Velichkov acts for well-known pharma companies on all aspects of their operations in Bulgaria, from corporate, regulatory and commercial matters to dispute resolution and IP issues. ‘Tenacious’ partner Kalina Tchakarova
leads the pharma regulatory practice and has well over two decades of experience advising on advertising and distribution of medicinal products and IP protection, including patent validity and infringement mandates. Recent client gains include Pharmascience and Novartis Pharma Services, among others.Practice head(s):
Kalina Tchakarova
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Djingov, Gouginski, Kyutchukov and Velichkov is a top-tier practice for healthcare and life sciences practice. Their team understands a client’s priorities and business and shows determination in finding the most suitable range of solutions. They have a large and resourceful team they can easily deploy if needed, so that even the most complicated matters are dealt with in a timely fashion.’
‘Kalina Tchakarova is a super-reliable and accessible partner with deep market knowledge. She is tenacious, calm, with a fine-tuned commercial sense and an amazing attention to details. You cannot ask for a better healthcare and life sciences lawyer.’
Key clients
Advanced Sterilization Products (ASP)
Pierre Fabre Dermo-Cosmetique
Kyowa Kirin International
CSL Behring
Medison Pharma Trading
Merck Bulgaria
Pharmascience
Swedish Orphan Biovitrim
Novartis Pharma Services Inc.
Astellas Pharma
Work highlights
- Advising Aspen Europe and its local subsidiary on an ongoing basis, including on general corporate and regulatory matters.
- Assisted Pharmasciece on ongoing pharmaceutical regulatory matters, related to pricing and reimbursement of generic pharmaceutical products, as well as intellectual property implications in the field.
- Advising Swedish Orphan Biovitrum in relation to all pharmaceutical matters that the company deals with in Bulgaria, such as the localisation of HCC agreements, corporate matters and pharmaceutical compliance.
Bulgaria > Intellectual property Tier 1
Djingov, Gouginski, Kyutchukov & Velichkov’s IP practice group counts Facebook, Instagram and Carlsberg Breweries, to name a few, among its roster of notable clients. The team handles the full scope of contentious and non-contentious matters, from registration and enforcement of patents, trademarks, designs, geographical indications and copyrights to execution of licensing. Team leader Kalina Tchakarova, who regularly advises clients on strategies to secure enforceable brand protection, has built the practice over 20 years and is supported by senior associates Desislava Iordanova, Kamen Gogov and associate Patricia Cherkezova.Practice head(s):
Kalina Tchakarova
Other key lawyers:
Dessislava Iordanova; Kamen Gogov; Patricia Cherkezova
Testimonials
‘Djingov, Gouginski, Kytuchukov and Velichkov is a national law firm with a strong foothold in the local Bulgarian market, but with an excellent international network and an outstanding IP team.’
‘We particularly appreciate their quick, extremely competent handling of cases and the trustworthy way in which they deal with our clientele at all times.’
‘One can completely rely on the colleagues at Djingov, Gouginski, Kytuchukov and Velichkov. The firm is a matter of course for us and has been the first point of contact for IP issues in Bulgaria for over ten years.’
‘Partner Kalina Tchakarova and associate Patritsiya Cherkezova are utterly experienced, excellent strategic thinkers and clear advisors who have an outstanding position in the Bulgarian IP market. They react extremely quickly, communicate clearly, handle cases convincingly – and, above all, extremely successfully.’
Key clients
Avia International
Carlsberg Breweries and Carlsberg Bulgaria
Economedia
Eljoy
MYX
Penetron International
Škoda Auto
Proviotic
Work highlights
- Representing Facebook, Inc. in trademark enforcement matters.
- Acting for Instagram regarding an opposition against similar national trademarks.
- Assisting Economedia with the filing and registration of EUTMs.
Bulgaria > Projects and PPP Tier 1
Praised for its ‘detailed knowledge and deep experience’, Djingov, Gouginski, Kyutchukov & Velichkov's projects development practice advises on the full cycle of infrastructure utilities and transport projects, as well as acting for local governments and financial institutions on both the financing and sponsor side of high-profile concessions and PPP projects. Combining interdisciplinary expertise from across the firm, the team is jointly led by public procurement and energy expert Milan Pandev, head of real estate and construction Stephan Kyutchukov, and Nikolai Gouginski, who focuses on the financing aspects of infrastructure, construction and financial projects.Practice head(s):
Milan Pandev; Stephan Kyutchukov; Nikolai Gouginski
Other key lawyers:
Anton Krustev
Testimonials
‘Detailed knowledge of legislation and deep experience in the practice. Always available, ready to ask detailed questions and calm in explaining to the customer everything about the subject.’
Key clients
Patria Land Oy
Shanghai Sensheng Assets Management Centre (Limited Partnership)
ERG Insaat Ticaret ve Sanayi AS and SSB Sauerwein & Schaefer Bau AG
ContourGlobal Maritza East III
Medgold Resources
Chariot Motors and Consortium Chariot Motors/Higer Bus Company Limited
Kaliakra
Blocks Group Bulgaria
Bridge Capital
VMware
Work highlights
- Advising Patria Land Oy in connection with the participation in a tender for acquisition of armoured vehicles and equipment held by the Bulgarian Ministry of Defence.
- Advising ERG Insaat Ticaret ve Sanayi AS and SSB Sauerwein & Schaefer Bau AG in their capacity of one of the bidders for the Sofia Airport Concession tender.
Bulgaria > Real estate and construction Tier 1
Djingov, Gouginski, Kyutchukov & Velichkov has an impressive portfolio of high-profile real estate transactions and projects, and handles the full scope of matters, including acquisitions, financing, leasing, zoning and construction, among others. A work highlight includes advising oil producer Kaliakra on the sale of its assets, comprising a plant in Dobrich, to Bulgarian manufacturer Oliva. Practice leader Stephan Kyutchukov, whose expertise in real estate mandates is unmatched, is supported by counsel Kaloyan Krumov, who focuses on project financing aspects of property acquisitions.Practice head(s):
Stephan Kyutchukov
Other key lawyers:
Kaloyan Krumov; Nikolina Stefanova; Maya Mircheva
Testimonials
‘Best in customer service approach, response time, efforts to understand the business and to add value, full scope of services, well prepared team of professionals.’
‘Provided consultancy and support for facility lease contract, drafting and reviewing lease agreement.’
Key clients
Abalta Technologies
AbbVie
Accentive Management Ltd.
Acibadem City Clinic EAD
Agrimatko Bulgaria
Agrotechservice
AP Investments
Auto Kelly a.s.
BDC
Biomachinostroene
Blocks Group Bulgaria
Bridge Capital LLC
BSR Sofia (Edmond De Rothschild Private Equity Management)
Bulgarian Real Estate Fund
Bunge Romania
C.H. Robinson
C3/CustomerContactChannels
CallPoint New Europe (Telus International Europe)
Cargotec Oyj
Corio N.V.
DOHLE Trading Group Holding LLC & Co. LP
EMP Invest Bulgaria (Empower Capital Fund)
ERG Insaat Ticaret ve Sanayi AS
European Parliament
Froneri Bulgaria
Global Resource
GTC
Hilton Hotels
K&K
Kaliakra
Karsch Venture Capital
Kharis Capital Advisory Belgium
Landmark Holding
Lempriere Australia PTY
Lion`s Head Investments
Luben
Michael Kalderon
Mid Europa Partners
NEPI Investment Management
Oman Investment Fund (OIF)
OMV Bulgaria
Optima Befektetesi Alapkezelo Zrt
OTP Bank
P.D. Investments
Pillarstone Europe
PPF
Ramot
S & K Development
Sitel
Soufflet Groupe
Spectrum Brands
Stromunion
Tengelmann Warenhandelsgesellschaft
The Body Shop International
UniCredit Bulbank
Viridian Offices
VMware
Work highlights
- Advised Kaliakra on the sale of its long-term assets comprising a plant in Dobrich, Bulgaria, to Oliva.
- Engaged by the European Parliament as an ongoing legal consultant.
- Advised Acibadem City Clinic EAD on the structuring, due diligence and acquisition of an operating oncology hospital building.
Bulgaria > TMT Tier 1
Djingov, Gouginski, Kyutchukov & Velichkov counts multinational technology companies, platforms and service providers among its noteworthy list of clients, whilst also being praised for its ‘knowledge of the market and network in the Bulgarian telecoms sector’. Together with White & Case LLP as lead international counsel, the team advised the private investment group PPF a.s. on the Bulgarian law aspects of the $2.1bn acquisition of Central European Media Enterprises. ‘Tenacious advocate’ and partner Violetta Kunze leads the practice group, and is supported by senior associate Milka Ivanova.Practice head(s):
Violetta Kunze
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Violetta Kunze has deep knowledge of the regulator and industry. She provides practical, business-focused advice and helps effectively execute regulatory strategy. She can cut through complicated regulatory requirements and explain them in a way that enables clients to understand and respond to regulatory risk. She is an excellent and tenacious advocate.’
‘Milka Ivanova is a thoughtful, knowledgeable lawyer with excellent communication skills and a strong understanding of regulatory requirements and their implications for industry.’
‘Very solid and good knowledge of the market and network in the Bulgarian telecoms sector.’
‘Milka Ivanova is a superb lawyer with excellent market knowledge and very solid understanding of our business. She produces smart and efficient legal advice which can be implemented into daily routines right away.’
‘Knowledgeable, practical, responsive, very thoughtful and strategic. A pleasure to work with.’
Key clients
PPF a.s.
Walt Disney Co.
Bulsatcom
Snapshot Games Sofia, Snapshot Games
Google Ireland
Lan Med Nautilus Limited and Mediterranean Nautilus Bulgaria, PCCW Global B.V.
VMware Bulgaria
Magnetic Head Technologies
ARINC Bulgaria
MYX
PCCW Global Inc., LAN MED Nautilus Limited, Fuze B.V.
Eurotronics
Work highlights
- Advised PPF a.s. on the Bulgarian law aspects of the acquisition of the media and entertainment group Central European Media Enterprises, together with White & Case LLP as lead international counsel.
- Advised on the Bulgarian law aspects and assisted Walt Disney Co. to implement the global acquisition of the major entertainment assets of 21st Century Fox by Walt Disney Co. in Bulgaria.
- Advising the sellers on the sale of Bulsatcom, including assistance with due diligence and assistance with the local aspects of the transaction documentation and competition law advice.
Bulgaria > Transport (including shipping) Tier 2
Djingov, Gouginski, Kyutchukov & Velichkov has an impressive client list which includes well-known airlines including Ryanair, Wizz Air and Turkish Airlines, among others. The interdisciplinary practice is well-placed to advise on the life cycle of major infrastructure and transport projects, from corporate, financing, public procurements and real estate to regulatory and dispute resolution. Practice co-leader and M&A partner Zdravka Ugrinova assists transport-sector clients with acquisitions, concessions and other corporate matters, and fellow practice head Milan Pandev focuses on public procurement procedures.Practice head(s):
Zdravka Ugrinova; Milan Pandev
Key clients
ERG Insaat Ticaret ve Sanayi
Ryanair
Turkish Airlines
Daimler Chrysler
Wizz Air Hungary
ASL Airlines Belgium
MAN SE/MAN Truck & Bus/MAN Truck & Bus Deutschland
Skoda Auto
Cargotec Oyj
Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles (CAF)
The Export Import Bank of China (CEXIM)
Zim Israel Navigation Company
Sojitz Corporation of America
JMAC Air
Karsan Otomotiv Sanayii ve Tic.
Patria Land Oy
Ford Otomotiv Sanayi
Chariot Motors
CK Holdings Co.
ITS Bulgaria
Rail Cargo Austria
Work highlights
- Advising ERG Insaat Ticaret ve Sanayi and SSB Sauerwein & Schaefer Bau in their capacity as one of the bidders for the Sofia Airport Concession tender process.
- Represented Turkish Airlines in relation to numerous insurance cargo claims and passenger claims under Regulation (EC) No 261/2004.
- Represented Bulgarian Employers’ Association Innovative Technologies BRAIT and Automotive Cluster Bulgaria in an appeal before the Supreme Administrative Court of Decision No. 32 of the Council of Ministers for non-recognition of client as representative organisation of the employers at a national level.
Djingov, Gouginski, Kyutchukov & Velichkov > Firm Profile
The firm: DGKV is one of the largest, oldest, most prominent independent law firms in Bulgaria, known for its solid record of pioneering projects on the Bulgarian market. Founded in 1994, its asset is the unique combination of profound legal knowledge, experience in international transactions and ability to handle large-scale transactions. With 15 partners and over 55 lawyers, DGKV has resources to assemble the right team to address the most complicated matters. Its ever-growing portfolio of over 4,000 multinational clients is a fair attestation of its high-quality legal services.
Areas of practice
M&A: DGKV has a reputation for advising the largest M&A in Bulgaria and significant global transactions in relation to their Bulgarian law aspects. The firm has advised: the biggest M&A deal for 2018 in Bulgaria – the EUR 810m acquisition of the Bulgarian assets of Telenor; the biggest deal in 2017 – the EUR 252.9m acquisition of Paradise Center shopping center in Sofia; CK Holdings Co. Ltd. in relation to the USD 7.1bn sale of Fiat Chrysler’s Magneti Marelli to Japan’s Calsonic Kansei; KKR on the Bulgarian aspects of the acquisition of the margarine and spreads business of Unilever. Other key clients: Equinix, Fairfax Financial Holdings, GTC, Mitsui & Co. Ltd., Call Point New Europe, Dell, etc.
Banking and finance: DGKV focuses on secured transactions, corporate finance, public finance and regulation of financial and investment services. DGKV consulted IFC, AIG, CAIB, MKB and State General Reserve Fund of Oman for the acquisition of shares in major Bulgarian banks; OTP and DSK Bank, the World Bank, EBRD, JBIC, BSTDB, Deutsche Bank, EIB, Procredit Bank, GTC Group on financing of various infrastructure, construction and financial projects in Bulgaria, etc.
Energy and utilities: DGKV provides full-scope legal assistance to clients interested in investing or otherwise engaged in the energy sector in Bulgaria. The firm has advised ABB, AES, the Bulgarian Government, Citibank and US Exim Bank, ContourGlobal, EBRD, GE Power & Water, Marubeni, RWE Power; EZ, Chevron and Lukoil regularly on local operations; Gazprom Marketing & Trading, J.P. Morgan Energy Europe, Merrill Lynch, OMV Trading and Vitol on energy trading matters; China Development Bank, SINOSURE, Credit Suisse, Gamesa, Mitsui&Co, Raiffeisen, Statkraft, Toshiba, Verbund in numerous renewable energy projects; and Gazprom and MOL on gas pipeline projects.
Competition: with a strong competition practice, DGKV has made a significant contribution to the Bulgarian Commission for Protection of Competition. It’s advised Aurubis, Bunge, MasterCard Europe on competition regulatory issues; Aurubis, Metro Cash and Carry, Nokia, KBC, Devnya Cement, Visa Europe, Coca Cola in relation to antitrust investigations by the regulator and other antitrust matters.
Real estate: DGKV has a strong reputation in the real estate market, advising the acquisitions of: the most expensive real estate in Bulgaria – the EUR 252.9m Paradise Center; NIS Petrol and OMV; numerous operating mall acquisitions; land acquisition and construction and/or acquisition of residential, office, retail and mixed-use developments; large-scale commercial real estate financings. Other recent projects include: Equinix on site acquisition for the establishment of its second data centre in Bulgaria and VMware on the largest office lease deal in Bulgaria in the last 10 years.
TMT: DGKV offers a ‘one-stop shop’ for technology companies with operations in Bulgaria. It represents Google on a regular basis in relation to legal issues associated with online services and customers support in Bulgaria; Deutsche Telekom; Facebook LLC; Instagram LLC; Univeral 1440 Entertainment LLC; Telecom Italia; Tata Communications; Swisscom; PCCW Global; VOXBONE; Progress Software, etc.
Litigation and arbitration: with an outstanding dispute resolution track record DGKV’s litigation team is one of the best in Bulgaria. DGKV represents clients in the commercial, construction, financial or administrative fields. Currently it represents Bulgarian Acquisition Company II, CEZ Electro Bulgaria, Financial Supervision Commission, Glorient Investment BG, SE Bordnetze, etc. For the last year the DGKV could boast with an impressive successful track record in major court cases with very high success rate, including commercial and administrative litigation, and international arbitration with total value of more than EUR 737m.
Intellectual property: Google Inc., Facebook Inc., Instagram LLC, Warner Bros., Teva Pharmaceuticals Europe BV (confidential), Carlsberg Bulgaria, Pierre Fabre Dermo-Cosmetique S.A., Deutsche Telekom AG, Tchibo GmbH, Cargill Inc., Marie Brizard Wine and Spirits Distribution Bulgaria EOOD, Guess Inc are among our IP clients.
Labour and social security: DGKV’s employment team excels as one of the few stand-alone employment law practices on the Bulgarian market. Its employment lawyers are heavily involved in providing legal field specific knowledge to clients with a view to optimizing every aspect of their operations in Bulgaria and strives to ensure their specific employment needs are met in an ever-changing business world. Major clients are Yazaki Corporation, Turkish Airlines, Ryanair, Volkswagen, Coca Cola, AES Maritza East I, Takeaway.com, ABB Bulgaria, Grohe Adria, etc.
Main Contacts
| Department | Name | Telephone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| M&A | Zdravka Ugrinova | ||
| M&A | Violetta Kunze | ||
| General corporate | Assen Djingov | ||
| General corporate | Zdravka Ugrinova | ||
| Banking and finance | Nikolai Gouginski | ||
| Banking and finance | Georgi Tzvetkov | ||
| Energy and utilities | Georgi Gouginski | ||
| Energy and utilities | Milan Pandev | ||
| Competition | Nikolai Gouginski | ||
| Real estate and construction | Stephan Kyutchukov | ||
| Project finance and capital markets | Nikolai Gouginski | ||
| Project finance and capital markets | Georgi Tzvetkov | ||
| TMT | Violetta Kunze | ||
| TMT | Kalina Tchakarova | ||
| Intellectual property | Kalina Tchakarova | ||
| Litigation and arbitration | Angel Ganev | ||
| Tax | Viara Todorova | ||
| Labour and social security | Kalina Tchakarova | ||
| Labour and social security | Youliana Naoumova |
Lawyer Profiles
| Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Ms Rusalena Angelova | Senior Associate | View Profile |
 | Mr Peter Angov | Associate | View Profile |
 | Mr Vladislav Antonov | Senior Associate | View Profile |
 | Ms Silviya Apostolova | Senior Associate | View Profile |
 | Mr Galin Atanasoff | Senior Associate | View Profile |
 | Ms Tsvetelina Bayraktarova | Senior Associate | View Profile |
 | Mr Valery Blagoev | Associate | View Profile |
 | Mr Valentin Bojilov | Counsel | View Profile |
 | Mr Kamen Gogov | Senior Associate | View Profile |
 | Mr Nikolai Gouginski | Partner, working in the competition law, EU and regulatory, project finance, secured… | View Profile |
 | Ms Ralitsa Gougleva | Counsel | View Profile |
 | Ms Milka Ivanova | Senior Associate | View Profile |
 | Ms Dessislava Ivanova | Associate | View Profile |
 | Ms Lilia Kisseva | Senior Associate | View Profile |
 | Mr Kaloyan Krumov | Partner | View Profile |
 | Mr Anton Krustev | Partner | View Profile |
 | Ms Gergana Monovska | Counsel | View Profile |
 | Ms Youliana Naoumova | Partner, working in the employment, social security, M&A, JVs, corporate law practice… | View Profile |
 | Mr Omourtag Petkov | Partner, working in the general corporate law, commercial law, M&A, infrastructure, concessions,… | View Profile |
 | Mr Ivan Punev | Senior Associate | View Profile |
 | Ms Elena Shopova | Senior Associate | View Profile |
 | Ms Kalina Tchakarova | Partner, working in the IP, labour and social security, corporate, pharmaceutical law,… | View Profile |
 | Ms Zdravka Ugrinova | Partner, working in the M&A, JVs, corporate, private equity and privatisation practice… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of lawyers : 55Languages
English French German RussianOther
Contacts : Assen Djingov Contacts : Marius Velichkov Other offices : Berlin- Banking, finance and capital markets
- Commercial, corporate and M&A
- Dispute resolution
- Energy and natural resources
- EU and competition
- Healthcare and life sciences
- Intellectual property
- Projects and PPP
- Real estate and construction
- TMT
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Transport (including shipping)